Does anyone know how difficult the administrative requirements are for an organisation supporting someone to get a volunteer visa? My partner and I are planning to come to Thailand next year and were thinking of getting education visas. I'm a psychologist in Australia and thought that using my professional skills as a volunteer with an NGO might actually be of more benefit, but am not sure if it would be more hassle than it is worth for the organisation. I haven't approached anyone yet, just thought I would try to check out if it would be worth considering.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around the complexities of obtaining a volunteer visa in Thailand, especially as an expat with professional skills. One comment advises that an education visa (ED visa) might be a safer and more straightforward option due to recent crackdowns on volunteer visas. It highlights that to hire volunteers, organizations must be registered with the Department of Labor and fulfill strict legal requirements similar to those for ED visas, including obtaining work permits and proving compliance every 90 days with documentation from the sponsoring organization. Concerns are raised about the scrutiny associated with volunteer visas and the implications for future visa applications.
90 DAY REPORTING RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Use the trusted Thailand 90 Day Reporting Service to get your in-person report done and mailed to you for as low as 375 THB (even if the online system doesn't work for you).
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.